9 Metis

Metis (Greek: Μῆτις) was an Oceanid nymph in Greek mythology, known for her wisdom, cunning, and deep thought. She was the first wife of Zeus and the mother of Athena.

According to Hesiod's Theogony, Zeus impregnated Metis but then swallowed her whole after learning of a prophecy that foretold that Metis would bear two children: first, a daughter of exceeding strength and wisdom (Athena), and second, a son who would dethrone Zeus. To prevent this threat to his power, Zeus tricked Metis into transforming herself into a fly, and promptly swallowed her.

Despite being inside Zeus, Metis continued to fashion a helmet and robe for her daughter. The persistent hammering and labor pains caused Zeus a terrible headache. To relieve the pain, Hephaestus (or Prometheus, in some versions) split Zeus's head open with an axe, and from Zeus's head sprang forth Athena, fully grown and armed.

Metis remained within Zeus, becoming his internal advisor and counselor. This explains Zeus's reputation for wisdom and foresight, as he was said to consult with Metis on all matters. In essence, Metis's essence became an integral part of Zeus, enhancing his power and intelligence.

The name "Metis" itself signifies wisdom, skill, craft, and deep thought, characteristics strongly associated with both the goddess and her daughter Athena. In modern contexts, "metis" can refer to a type of knowledge that is practical, contextual, and acquired through experience, often contrasted with theoretical or abstract knowledge.